Joseph gaining autonomy . . .

Joseph has now ingested something besides breast milk (and medicine). We finally started solid foods about 2 weeks ago (so Joseph was 4 1/2 months at the time). On September 26th Joseph had rice cereal (mixed with breast milk) for the first time. It was much less of a big deal for him than it was for me. Brad has been trying for months to get me to give him some food and he was right that Joseph would enjoy it. My big little man seemed very interested in the new experience and ate more than I thought he would. This past Sunday he had sweet potatoes for the first time (again at Brad's prodding) and he also seemed to enjoy these. However, neither food has so far made him sleep anymore at night as many suggested it might and as would be much appreciated. Actually, they seem to make him a bit gassy (and he is already a very gassy guy; lots in common with his dad). It’s kind of funny, but it really feels like Joseph is getting all grown-up and independent. I guess it makes sense since starting food is really the first step in weaning—a word that makes me cringe. But I have to remember that being a parent is really all about helping Joseph become his own, independent, person and getting food from a source other than mom is part of that process!

Also, big news: SOMEOME BESIDES MOM CHANGED A DIAPER!! The day before Joseph turned 5 months Debbie, Brad's mom, babysat and changed a diaper. Since Brad refuses to take part in this exciting aspect of Joseph care she was the first person other than I (since his time in the NICU that is) to have this particular privledge.

I hope everyone is doing well. Happy fall!